Preparing Your Basketball Hoop for Winter
As it gets colder, it is time to start thinking about how to protect your basketball hoop from harsh winter weather. Whether you have an in-ground or portable hoop, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring the hoop’s longevity through the colder months. With proper basketball hoop installation Raleigh NC, and tips from Woodplay of the Carolinas, your goals will stay in excellent condition throughout the winter.
In-Ground Basketball Hoops
- Cleaning: Before the cold weather sets in, ensure your Goalrilla goal is clean. If you are covering your hoop, rinse thoroughly and let all parts dry completely to avoid rust.
- If your hoop has an adjustable height mechanism, use a silicone-based lubricant to keep the gears running if you plan on using the goal throughout the winter. When you live in a colder area and do not plan on utilizing your hoop, this can help prevent freezing.
- Invest in a weatherproof tarp to protect the backboard and hoop from snow, ice, and freezing rain. Additionally, you can remove the net and store it inside to prevent damage.
- Check the anchor kit utilized in basketball goal installation Raleigh NC for damage early. A simple check gives you ample time for repairs and storage preparation.
Portable Basketball Hoops
If you have a portable basketball hoop and do not intend to use it during the winter, move it to a sheltered area like a garage, covered patio, or shed. A covered area will protect the hoop from the worst of winter weather and reduce the risk of damage since a portable hoop does not undergo the same basketball hoop installation Raleigh NC as in-ground hoops. Most portable hoops have a base filled with sand or water to stabilize them. In the colder months, sand may be a better option for base stability because the water in the portable hoop will expand if it freezes. If you fill the base with water, ensure room is left to allow for expansion if the water should freeze. Additionally, if the portable hoop is on the street, move it further away from the road to ensure snow plows and emergency vehicles can pass.
Protecting Hoop Accessories
Taking down your basketball net can prolong its lifespan. Snow and ice can weigh down the net and cause it to stretch or potentially tear. You could also cover the hoop and basketball net with a bag to protect against bad weather, which is a less permanent solution if you intend to use the goal throughout the winter. To reduce the risk of damage, remove and store any accessories that are not permanently attached indoors in the event of severe weather.
Prevent Damage to Hoops with Proper Basketball Hoop Installation Raleigh NC
Proper preparation and care of your basketball hoop is essential to ensuring it remains in good condition during extreme winter weather. A little effort now ensures your hoop is up and running come spring. With the correct care and basketball hoop installation Raleigh NC, you can keep your Woodplay of the Carolinas in-ground hoop, portable hoop, and accessories in great shape year-round.